In July, the Village of Wellington took its first steps towards becoming a year-round “Equestrian Capital of the World.” The initiative began through a proposal centered on Wellington’s Global Dressage Festival Showgrounds, which was submitted to the local government.
Wellington’s deep roots as an equestrian community
Over the past several years, there has been an increasing demand for more luxury lifestyle opportunities in South Florida.
Events and venues centered on equestrian sport have met this demand and have helped to attract countless visitors and new residents to Palm Beach County, particularly Wellington – home to many world-class equestrian competitions and facilities. Additionally, equestrian sport provides a terrific opportunity for many local businesses to contribute to Palm Beach County’s economic growth.
A world-class equestrian destination
One of the most significant and longest-running annual sporting events in the Palm Beaches is the renowned World Equestrian Festival which is hosted in Wellington. From January to April every year, the world’s top hunter/jumper horses and riders convene at the Wellington International (formerly Palm Beach International Equestrian Center), introducing countless families and spectators to Wellington’s highly desirable lifestyle.
Overall, Wellington International hosts hunter/jumper competitions on its 90-plus acre grounds for 42 weeks of the year. Its two core facilities include the Main Grounds and the Equestrian Village, which feature over 20 competition arenas, a derby field, and one of the most expansive covered arenas in the world. Part of the Equestrian Village is the Global Dressage Festival Showgrounds, slated to be the centerpiece of Wellington’s development as the world’s premier equestrian destination.
Data from a recent economic impact survey shows that Wellington’s equestrian season generates more than $280 million for the local economy each year. In 2021, the village registered more than 150,000 paid room nights and a tourism spend of over $35 million, despite operating under COVID restrictions.
New residential developments
Part of the initial stage of the massive project includes plans for 300 high-end residences along with retail venues on the existing site of the Global Dressage Festival Showgrounds. Another complex with around 200 residences will also be built close to the main jumping show grounds and in the Peacock Pond area.
Detailed plans for a community named the Lagoon at Equestrian Village were also submitted to the Village of Wellington. One unique aspect of the community is a “golf cart in-out” lifestyle, inspired by the “ski-in, ski-out” concept of upscale towns in Colorado and the French/Swiss Alps. The Lagoon at Equestrian Village will be constructed right next to the White Birch polo fields and the Coach House, a luxury condominium project.
Other plans for future expansion of the project include a hotel and other venues, set to rise on the vacant land just across the main entrance of the Global grounds.
Find the best Wellington, FL equestrian real estate options
If you’re planning to relocate to this exciting equestrian community, the top real estate brokers in Wellington, FL are ready to help!
The Parallèle Properties team offers a complete range of real estate services, including assisting clients in their search for the finest luxury properties and equestrian facilities.
Get in touch with the team by calling 561.446.3033 or sending an email here.